Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Cricket enthusiasts were taken aback when Chennai Super Kings unveiled Ruturaj Gaikwad as their new captain, succeeding the legendary MS Dhoni, who guided the team to five IPL trophies. Anticipation was high for the customary captains’ photoshoot, but Shikhar Dhawan, the seasoned opener and skipper of Punjab Kings, was conspicuously absent.
Jitesh Sharma, the wicketkeeper-batsman, stood in for Dhawan, sparking speculation about his potential role within the squad. The captains’ photoshoot, a cherished tradition in the IPL, sees skippers pose proudly alongside the coveted trophy.
During the pre-season event in Chennai, all ten captains posed with the trophy, with Dhawan notably missing. Punjab Kings’ newly appointed vice-captain attended in his absence, as IPL’s official X handle tweeted, “Presenting the 9 captains with PBKS being represented by vice-captain Jitesh Sharma.”
A source close to the Punjab Kings clarified to MyKhel, stating, “Jitesh Sharma is now officially the vice-captain of Punjab Kings for this season, as announced by the IPL. Dhawan’s absence from today’s event was due to a minor illness. He is expected to recover in time for PBKS’ inaugural match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday (March 23) at the newly constructed Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium in Mullanpur, Mohali.”
The source added, “Dhawan has been actively training with the team in Mohali and is slated to be fully prepared for the opening game against their northern rivals, Delhi Capitals.”
Jitesh Sharma, the 30-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman from Amravati, Maharashtra, has made an impact since his IPL debut in 2022, scoring 543 runs in 26 matches at an impressive average of 25.86.
PBKS is set to face Delhi Capitals in their tournament opener on March 23 at the new Mullanpur stadium.